Ancient Texts

Ancient Texts

The University of Divinity observes either of two referencing systems for ancient texts.

1. The latest edition of The SBL Handbook of Style (SBL), chapter 8. Short references are given in text (in text citations), using an abbreviated title with the translation or translator’s last name in square brackets. Full edition details are provided in the bibliography. Or consult the Student Supplement for an overview of using SBL to cite the Bible and/or Ancient Texts.
2. The latest edition of the Chicago Manual of Style. References are provided in the manner of any text with translator and/or editor.

Ask your lecturer or supervisor which is the preferred style for use in their course or subject.

Society of Biblical Literature Rules and Example

See page 9 of the SBL Student Supplement for an example Bibliography.

Rule for In-text Citation
(Author, Title in italics Number reference [Translator/Translation])

Example In-text Citation

(Justin, Apology 1.16 [ANCL])

Chicago Manual of Style Rules and Example

Rule for Notes
#. Author, “Title,” trans. Translator’s First and Last Names, Title of Volume in Italics, vol. number if applicable, ed. Editor’s First and Last Names, Publisher, Year, page number.

Example Notes

1. Leo the Great, “Letter XXVIII to Flavian,” trans. Charles Lett Feltoe, Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, Second Series, vol. 12, ed. Philip Schaff and Henry Wace, T&T Clark and Eerdmans, 1997, 38–43.

Example Shortened Note

2. Leo, “Letter XXVIII,” 39.

Rule for Bibliography
Author. “Title.” Translated by Translator’s First and Last Names. Title of Volume in Italics, vol. number if applicable, edited by Editor’s First and Last Names, Page Number. Publisher, Year.

Example Bibliography